Liverpool are reportedly lining up a move for Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto. A report in the English press has claimed that the Reds are set to battle with their rivals Manchester United in pursuit of the Spanish midfielder’s signature. Some bookies are suggesting that the 25-year-old could be used on the right-back position by both clubs if they are successful in their attempts to convince Barcelona to part ways with their prized asset.
Nathaniel Clyne is currently out with a long-term injury and Joe Gomez, who is more of a centre-back is filling out as a makeshift right-back. The youngster Trent Alexander-Arnold has also featured in the position for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool this season although he has been used sporadically so far. So the German manager is likely to have identified the position as an area he needs to address soon as his side prepares to fight for a Champions League spot for next season.
Borussia Dortmund is also being reported to have joined in on the race for Roberto with the reigning Premier League champions Chelsea an outside shout to come in with an offer for him. BetStars Director of Trading Ian Marmion has shed some light on Roberto’s future destinations. He said:
“Manchester United and Liverpool are both interested in signing Barcelona’s versatile midfielder Sergi Roberto in the January transfer window. “Roberto has spent much of the last two seasons playing at right-back and United may see him as a long-term successor to Antonio Valencia, whereas Liverpool could use him immediately, with first-choice right-back Nathaniel Clyne still out with a recurring back injury.
“Manchester United are available at 3/1 to bring in Roberto next month, with Liverpool just behind at 4/1.
“Borussia Dortmund are also linked with a move for the Spaniard in January, the five-time Bundesliga champions are at 6/1 to sign Roberto next month.
“Chelsea make up the list of contenders for Roberto’s signature and are at 12/1 to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
“Antonio Conte may see Roberto as the long-term fit for Chelsea’s right wing-back role, which is currently competed for by Victor Moses and Davide Zappacosta.”
The 25-year-old has made 21 appearances for the Catalans this season and has scored a goal and provided 6 assists so far. Roberto is highly versatile and can play as a defensive midfielder or on the right flank as a winger or a wing-back which makes him an attractive proposition for some of Europe’s elite clubs.
It remains to be seen if the Reds of Merseyside are able to fend off strong competition from Premier League rivals in their quest to secure his services in the near future.
